Rescue workers and residents search through the rubble after an earthquake struck Pereira, Colombia, Monday, Aug. 10. AP-Yonhap
BOGOTA, Colombia — Search and rescue efforts were underway early Tuesday in dozens of cities and towns in western Colombia after a powerful earthquake struck the region, killing at least 111 people and leaving many trapped under the debris of damaged and destroyed buildings.
Monday's 7.4 magnitude earthquake rattled Cali, Quibdo, Pereira and numerous other cities and towns. Around 1,600 buildings were reported damaged or collapsed. Soldiers, rescue personnel and families picked through the rubble, removing and passing large pieces of concrete by hand down lines of volunteers.
President Abelardo de la Espriella said Monday afternoon at least 111 people had died.
Families posted information about missing loved ones on citizen-run websites. By Monday night, more than 2,700 people had been reported missing.
